Eric Smith
Staff Writer
Old Dominion University’s School of Nursing was nationally recognized by the U.S. News Survey for its online Graduate Nursing Program. The program was ranked number two in admissions selectivity and number 10 in student services and technology.
Karen Karlowicz, chairperson of the School of Nursing, was pleased with the results. “We are thrilled with the recognition of the hard work of faculty, and support of services offered by the university, to support online education,” said Karlowicz.
In August of last year, a survey was completed by the School of Nursing on the quality of education. Five months later, Karlowicz informed the staff about the national standings. At the faculty meeting she expressed that aspiring nurses have made a wise decision in choosing Old Dominion’s online Nursing Graduate Program.
Course offerings for graduate students began in 2002. According to Karlowicz, as time progressed, the School of Nursing “began migration” towards online education. The influence of the nursing program has been meaningful on campus and in the local area. “The program is very important because nurses that want a graduate degree go to school part-time and work full time,” said Karlowicz. Online education offers convenience to students because of its flexibility around a busy schedule, as oppose to traditional on-campus programs.
Several faculty members were once students of the online program, re-enforcing the notion that the program can provide and create jobs in the community. Karlowicz reiterates this idea by stating, “We are the largest provider of nurses with graduate degrees.”
Memorable experiences from students include the close collaboration and communication with faculty members. Staff members make sure that they are available for students who need guidance or if they have questions. According to Karlowicz, faculty members are accessible and easy to contact. They are always available by phone, email or office hours. Faculty accessibility contributed to the number 10 ranking in student services and technology by the U.S. News Survey.
Within the next five years or more, Karlowicz does not expect demand for this program to grow, but to stay constant in the future. The only way for it to grow is by adding more programs within the School of Nursing.
Photo by Jake Zimmerman
